About books, reading, the power of fiction, some music, some movies. These are my opinions, my thoughts, my views. There is much wisdom afloat in the world and I like finding it in books. Communicating about wisdom found keeps it from getting lost.

Thursday, June 09, 2011

A GAME FOR THE LIVING

Two friends love the same woman. Ramon is a local Mexican, rather poor, devout Catholic. He mends furniture for a living. Theodore is a wealthy German painter, also lives in Mexico and is of no religious belief. They both love Lelia, also a painter, and became friends because of her. In fact they have amiably shared her as a lover for several years. When she is found murdered and mutilated, the friendship sours due to each man's suspicion of the other.

While the mystery of Lelia's death is being solved, Highsmith takes the opportunity to explore friendship, religious belief, and art in a unique story. Some of the interaction between Ramon and Theodore feels strained and often causes the plot to drag but the resolution of who committed the murder and of the friendship makes for some great final scenes.

There is no one quite like Highsmith. She seems to have an unlimited store of tales.

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ONCE UPON A TIME BOOKSTORE

This blog is linked to Once Upon A Time Bookstore in Montrose, CA, where I worked for several years. It is primarily a resource for customers to read my book reviews but anyone can now order books from the store via my blog. For store events, reading group schedules and other store info please visit the website.

You can now order any title reviewed here (as long as it is in print) in various formats including ebook. To order directly from Once Upon A Time, use the link at the bottom of the post. To order or find the book at your nearest local independent store, click on the book cover image at the top of the post.